Tips When Grilling Outdoors: Better Safe Than Sorry

Barbecues are a part of our life and our culture. Barbecue parties are festive events that bring friends and families together which is why every family in the US has hosted a barbecue party. However, it is sad to know that an average of 8,800 home fires annually is caused by grilling and that about half of injuries reported are caused by thermal burns. For these very reasons, we want to share valuable safety tips when you’re grilling outdoors. Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry.

1. Make sure that you have properly assembled the La Caja China. If you need assistance on how to set it up or how to use it, please contact us so we can help you out.

2. Also guarantee that you’ll follow recipes when grilling. Knowing how to properly grill your food and being aware of all the ingredients that you’ll use will reduce if not totally eliminate the possibility of accidents, injuries and food poisoning.

3. Take note of grilling times, temperature recommendations and the suggested tools that you’ll need to cook your food. This way, you’ll know when it’s time to remove your food from the grill and prevent it from burning, overcooking or undercooking.

4. Use charcoal starter fluid properly. Don’t add or spray it (or any other flammable liquid) to the fire. Your hand or arm may catch the flame and lead to injuries.

5. Keep your charcoal fluid out of children’s reach. They should also be stored away from sources of heat.

6. When barbecuing, put your La Caja China away from your home, garage, shed or any permanent structure. Doing so will avoid fire accidents when the breeze blows. Also ensure that there are no flammable materials near your grilling area.

7. Use our rotisserie grilling basket or a basket mesh when barbecuing small food items such as vegetables, shrimps and other small food items. This way, your food won’t accidentally fall in between the grill grates.

8. Before using your La Caja China, make sure that it’s clean. It should not have food residues from your last barbecue party.

9. Use tongs instead of pitch forks when turning your food. Forks poke into the meat or the food, thereby allowing their juice to run off. Tongs are not only easier but also safer to use.

10. For whole turkeys, chickens and large chunks of meat, you can use our bear paws.

11. Don’t ditch the thermometer. Having your thermometer will allow you to monitor the doneness of your food without peeking into the box every now and then. It will prevent food from burning and also lessen the times that you’ll open the box, therefore reducing the possibility of scalding.

12. When you’re done barbecuing, let the charcoals to completely cool down first. When they’re no longer lit, dispose them in a metal container.